TWO drug dealers have been sent to prison after they were caught with heroin in Redditch.

Kamaro Dixon, aged 25, of Oak Tree Avenue, Redditch, was given four and-a-half years for possessing a Class A drug with intent to supply.

He had denied the charge but was found guilty by a jury at Worcester Crown Court following a trial which started on Monday, June 9.

Janis Ozolins, aged 27, of Fownhope Close, Winyates, admitted the same charge and was given a three-year sentence.

The court heard that both men were arrested on January 2 this year after detectives from Redditch CID executed a search warrant obtained under the Misuse of Drugs Act at a flat in Fownhope Close. A bag was seized which contained 8.81 grams of heroin with a street value of between £270 and £970.

Detective Constable O’Reilly said the warrant was sought following police intelligence and concerns expressed by the community. There were reports of regularly comings and goings and it was suspected that drug supply was involved.

Following sentencing Det Con O’Reilly said: “These men were street dealers and their activities were having a big impact on the community. There was a lot of concern, not least because this was going on near a school.

“We are clamping down hard on this and the jailing of these men sends out a clear and strong message that it will not be tolerated.

“Those who deal in drugs and bring misery to their neighbourhoods can expect to lose their liberty and this case also demonstrates that when such matters are brought to our attention we will act swiftly and decisively.”

Anyone with information about drug misuse in their community should contact police on the non-emergency number 101. Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.